first, we know we are approaching the debt ceiling. second, sequestration will go into effect in two months, and third, funding for the government will expire march 27. these are opportunities to make real changes in spending. i'm excited to be representing indiana's fifth district and i'm ready to get to work. there is no decision, no reason, we need to wait until the 11th hour to start talking about the tough decisions we must make for the future of our country. it is time we commit to saving these important programs. for those who need them -- saving these programs for those who need them and getting our economic house in order for the future generations of my children and my grandchildren, and our clint's children and grandchildren. let this 113th congress that chose to tackle real problems instead of handing them down to our chern. let's embrace solutions that can set us on a path to a more sustainable future. >> my thanks to the dwisht gentlelady. i now recognize -- mr. messer: i recognize the gentlelady from south bend. my condo